Overtime Laws in Mississippi

As of 2026, the state of Mississippi does not have its own state-specific overtime law. Like many other U.S. states, it follows the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This means overtime rules, exemptions, and thresholds are defined by federal law.

One of the most notable changes that affected Mississippi workers in 2026 came from a late 2025 federal court decision that blocked the state’s planned salary threshold increase for exempt employees. The exemption level remains constant with the 2019 standard of $684 per week ($35,568 annually).

The table below shows key updates impacting overtime and wages in Mississippi for 2026:

Overview of Mississippi Overtime Laws 2026

Because Mississippi does not have any unique state-specific laws, employers are liable to follow the FLSA standards. It mandates employers to pay non-exempt employees overtime at 1.5X their regular wage rate for all hours worked beyond 40 per workweek. No overtime triggers otherwise. The state has no rules requiring employers to pay daily overtime, nor does it have any special provisions for work done on weekends or holidays. 

Eligibility for Overtime in Mississippi

Overtime eligibility in Mississippi depends on whether an employee is non-exempt or exempt under the FLSA:

• Non-Exempt Employees: Mostly hourly workers, blue-collar employees, and some salaried employees who earn less than the state/federal minimum wage threshold. They are legally entitled to receive overtime after 40 hours in a week.
• Exempt Employees: Typically comprises white-collar employees, or if they

• • Earn at least $684 per week ( satisfy the salary and duties test).
  • Perform exempt duties such as executive, administrative, or professional.

The state of Mississippi does not add any additional categories beyond the federal FLSA law.

Federal vs. Mississippi Overtime Rules

Mississippi’s overtime regulations mirror the federal law. The table below shows this complete alignment.

Exemptions in Mississippi

Mississippi strictly adheres to the FLSA exemption definitions. The main exempt categories are:

• Executive Employees: Manage a business, more than one department, supervise at least two employees, and have the authority to hire/fire the workforce.
• Administrative Employees: Office/non-manual work related to management or business operations with independent judgment.
• Professional Employees: Have advanced knowledge and work in fields like science, technology, innovation, law, medicine, accounting, or creative fields.
• Outside Salespersons: Employees who primarily make sales or take orders away from their employer’s place of business.
• IT Employees: Certain IT professionals, such as systems analysts, programmers, software developers, etc.
• Other Federal Exemptions: Agricultural laborers, seasonal and recreational workers, and certain types of transportation employees.

Employer Obligations and Employee Rights

In Mississippi, employers must comply with state/federal law to ensure fair pay and employee rights protection.

• Timely Payment: Regularly pay all wages on due dates or as mentioned in an employee’s employment contract. 
• Recordkeeping: Maintain accurate records of hours worked and wages paid to all non-exempt employees.
• Workplace Protections: Provide a safe working environment as per OSHA standards and follow all anti-discrimination laws.
• Penalties: Violating overtime laws can lead to back pay, liquidated damages, and legal fees.